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My parents made it clear that I should never display even the slightest disrespect to individuals who had the power to let me skip a half grade or move into more challenging classes. While it was all right for me to know more about a topic than my sixth-grade teacher had ever learned, questioning her facts could only lead to trouble.

The principal did not like the fact that the teachers would take my side. I always left an impression when I left the school - not for who I was but for what I did there.

I didn't think the teachers had the right to tell me what to do. I would just disobey, talk in the classroom, get very bad grades.

I knew what could happen to my son if he was sent to the wrong school and got in with the wrong crowd.

As a teacher myself I've been in situations where parents come at you, and sometimes parents come across like the teacher doesn't want the best for their kid and it can be really, really hurtful.

I could never let the teacher down. I always worked hard, too scared to get in trouble.

I was fortunate to have teachers that were flexible with allowing me to miss more class than I was supposed to be able to, for the sake of being able to tour.

I remember teachers who really singled me out for their discouragement.

There are a couple of teachers I have had without whose influence I would not be as happy with who I am.

As a former teacher and someone who has devoted her entire career to children and public schools, I understand the pain and frustration of parents who feel their children are not receiving the education they deserve.